Letter to the European Commissioner Michel regarding Eritrea’s abuse of Christians’ human rights

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Mr L Michel
European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid
BERLAYMONT 10 /165
1049 Brussels
Belgium

Commissioner Michel

May I begin by expressing my gratitude for all that the European Union (EU) is doing to promote respect for human rights in all matters relating to the formulation of European policy and legislation. I am, however, confused at the mixed messages that are being communicated by your recent dealings with Eritrea.

Commissioner, in May of this year the EU granted 122 million Euros in aid over a six year period to Eritrea. Moreover, at a joint press conference the Eritrean President was hailed as a key ally in the search for peace in the Horn of Africa, despite emerging evidence of his covert support for Somalia's Islamic Courts Militia, which has now been conclusively documented by, amongst others, the United Nations.

Although during the press conference no mention was made of the President's dismal human rights record, I was pleased to note that, in line with the Cotonou Agreements that govern EU relations with African countries, a clause inserted into the agreement calls on Eritrea not only to adopt a "constructive approach" on peace in the Horn of Africa, but also on human rights and press freedom within its own borders.

As you are aware, Commissioner, over 2000 Christians are currently detained without charge or trial in Eritrea. Moreover, you may be aware that on 5th September at the Wi'a (or Wea) Military Training Centre, Nigsti Haile (33) became the third Christian known to have died as a result of torture after she refused to sign a letter recanting her faith. You may also be aware that in the lead-up to the EU- Eritrea agreement, three journalists held without charge or trial since 2001 were reported to have died in detention. Finally, you are no doubt aware that in the recent past food aid donated by several sources was seized and illegally resold by the Eritrean government, with distribution often being limited to its supporters.

In light of these issues, may I urge you, Commissioner, to use your good offices to ensure that the EC requests transparency in the use of its funds so that they are in fact allocated for the purposes for which they were given?

May I also urge that the EC sets clear benchmarks for progress in each of the areas mentioned in the agreement, especially in light of the continuing deterioration in Eritrea's human rights climate.

Yours sincerely and respectfully

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